John Askey wants new Shrewsbury man Anthony Grant to prove his League One class
Shrewsbury boss John Askey wants his new addition Anthony Grant to yet again prove he is one of the best midfielders in League One.
Askey believes Grant, 31, has been one of the star men in the third tier for a number of seasons while playing for Peterborough, Port Vale, Crewe, Stevenage and Southend.
The tough-tackling, powerful central midfield player has signed a one-year Shrewsbury deal with the option of a second.
The Town chief said of his 11th signing of the summer: “He’s somebody who’s got vast experience in the first division and he’s been one of the best players in the first division over the years in the midfield position.
“He’s strong, aggressive, but he’s a good footballer as well and a good passer of the ball, and what we need.
“Most clubs where he’s gone he’s done well and over the years he’s probably been the best player at each club he’s been to, so hopefully that will be the case here."
Askey sees Grant in a similar mould to departed match day skipper Abu Ogogo, albeit more capable with the ball.
Grant made 48 appearances for Posh last term, the most he has been involved in a campaign for four seasons.
“He’s different than what we’ve got and obviously that’s what we lost during the summer, so I think he will be an important player for us," the boss continued.
“He’s strong and aggressive, perhaps not as athletic as Ogogo, but probably better on the ball.
“He played 48 times last season, so he’s still got a little bit left in him and that experience I think will help the younger ones.
“There’s only Dougie (Loft) really in midfield who’s got that experience, the rest are young lads that we are looking to develop and bring on, so I think Anthony will help us with that.”
